June 24 strike plan takes shape
Unions' planned day of industrial action will be a full strike, as 60% of public oppose higher retirement age of 62
TRADE unions have confirmed a full industry-wide strike for June 24 to protest against the government's plan to increase the retirement age to 62.
The day of industrial action was announced at the beginning of this month, but a decision on what form it should take was delayed until the details of the draft law were unveiled.
The government yesterday confirmed its plans for the pensions system overhaul, increasing the retirement age from 60 to 62 by 2018.
Budget Minister Eric Woerth said working longer was "inevitable" and the government would not be changing its mind.
Socialist leader Martine Aubry said the change would not solve the problem of financing state pensions.
Some 60% of people are against the idea, according to a CSA survey by Le Parisien published this morning.
The CGT, Unsa, CFDT, FSU, Solidaires and CFTC are now urging all of their members to stop work on July 24 and join street protests against the move.
A préavis de grève has already been lodged by unions representing rail workers. The disruption on the SNCF network will occur from 20.00 on June 23 until 8.00 on June 25.
Further details about the impact on schools and other public services should become clearer next week.
Photo:milphoto - Fotolia.com
